The 29-year-old captain declared he has “the best job in the world” and he intends to stick at it until he is 55

The 29-year-old captain also declared he has “the best job in the world” and he intends to stick at it until he is 55.

Harry, who has completed two combat tours in Afghanistan, added that flying an Apache Helicopter gunship was one of the “best experiences” of his life.

The fourth in line to the throne told colleagues: “Flying such an awesome machine is the best experience ever.” He added cheekily: “It’s better than… well I’ll leave that up to your imagination.”

His declaration came as it was ­announced older brother William will take a civilian job with the East Anglian Air Ambulance – and confirms both ­princes’ desire to lead more normal lives rather than be pressured into becoming full-time royals like their father.

Harry revealed his career plans last week at an event in Folkestone, Kent, while paying tribute to the thousands of British and Commonwealth soldiers who died in the First World War.

The royal said he was “incredibly moved” by the commemorations and was “proud” to have played a part in them.

A source said: “Harry was chatting quite informally and was talking about life in the Army. He said ‘I love it – it’s the best job in the world. I’m staying in until I can draw my pension – if they’ll let me’.”

While NCOs must leave after serving for 22 years, officers can serve up until they are 55 years old and in some cases can remain in the Army for longer.

Harry is currently a staff officer in Horse Guards Parade in London where his responsibilities include organising ceremonials such as Trooping the Colour.

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Proud soldier: Prince Harry at a First World War memorial event in Belgium last week

He was initially fearful of taking on a “desk job” but now accepts staff work will be part of his future officer career.

As revealed by the Sunday People earlier this year, Harry will be promoted to major, but his rise through the ranks will be dependent on how he copes with more ­demanding command roles.

He is regarded as a natural leader and one of the Army’s most promising young pilots.

But he will also have to pass a demanding course which can take up to two years if he wants to command at the higher levels within the Army.

Harry’s experience as both a cavalry officer and a pilot places him within a small elite of soldiers. But he will have to choose between returning to his beloved Blues and Royals and ­remaining in the Army Air Corps.

One source said: “Harry is well respected as both a pilot and a commander. He is maturing into a thoughtful and responsible soldier.”

Harry joined the Army in 2005 and pleaded with defence chiefs to be allowed to serve in Iraq. He was initially told he could serve on the front line but that decision was reversed after fears that he might be targeted by insurgents.

Harry was devastated and considered leaving the Army, but instead trained as a helicopter pilot and learnt to fly the Army Air Corps’ Apache gunship.